When BIRN was founded two decades ago, media freedom in the Balkans faced serious challenges, but there was hope; now, the prospects are even bleaker.

In an interview with BIRN, Mary Lawlor said human rights defenders and critics of the government in Bosnia’s Republika Srpska are being targeted and stigmatised.

Film screened at BIRN’s Reporting House in Pristina features harrowing testimonies of survivors of the Dubrava prison massacre, in which nearly 120 inmates were shot dead in May 1999.

Our selection of Premium stories this week takes a look at the region’s slow-burning political crises, smuggling networks, digital surveillance and a whole lot more.

Student-led protesters calling for snap elections continues to block roads in various towns and cities as they maintained their campaign against a government they accuse of corruption and brutality.

Those involved say UNA TV was founded in 2021 on a commitment to professional, independent journalism, but was this ever likely given the involvement of the son of Bosnian Serb strongman leader ...

Turkey condemns Israeli attacks, while other countries in Southeast Europe voice concern about likely political, security and economic implications.

One year into its four-year term, North Macedonia’s right-wing government says it has been paving the way for change, but sceptics are still awaiting serious movement on issues like the economy ...

Elsewhere, Slovakia agrees to NATO spending target of 5 per cent of GDP; ex-premier Babis’ legal troubles continue in Czechia; and Poles are becoming less supportive of Ukraine’s cause.

Bosnia's state court has confirmed the verdict sentencing Mirza Kapic to four-and-a-half years in prison for planning a terrorist attack on a mosque in the city of Zenica in 2023.

Former Prime Minister Kiril Petkov is stepping away from his We Continue the Change party amid a brewing corruption scandal.

Unable to bring defendants to court, Kosovo and Serbia are trying more suspects for war crime in their absence. Legal experts question whether justice is being served.